Notice
Obey no trespassing signs, stay off private land and do not enter forbidden areas. This hike may not be legal. Contact admin if you have solid information either way.

This route begins near the "intersection" of the railroad crossing and Cochran Road. The hike tends to run parallel to the rail line westward. The area is popular for ATVs and other off-road vehicles and though the hiking trail is not signed, it is well defined along the route. The hike westward gives nice views of the Gila River and the riparian vegetation along the way. In fact, the entire area is an interesting marriage of typical Sonoran Desert landscape abutting riparian vegetation along the Gila River. There are a number of interesting rock walls that were cut to accommodate the rail line to run next to the Gila that provide an interesting backdrop at times.

There are a few washes that run perpendicular to the trail that may fill during and after heavy rains as they lead to the adjacent Gila River. At the end of this hike you will get a nice view of a train trestle as it crosses the Gila River and as the rail line continues over the trestle it goes through a tunnel in the mountainside on the other side of the Gila River. The trail skirts left from this area and ends at a small sandy spot on the Gila River.

Simply enjoy the ample shade here for a short rest and return back following this "out and back" the way you arrived.

There are a few spots just off trail that you can find shade in several spots, but otherwise the entire trail leaves the hiker exposed so be sure to bring the sunscreen and wear a hat! Also - bring your own water! There are no opportunities for potable water along this trail.

WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.

Permit $$

None

Directions

Map Drive

or

Road

FR / Jeep Road - Car possible when dry

To hikeFrom Phoenix, follow US-60 east past Apache Junction to AZ 79 (South) to Florence. Just south of Florence, take a LEFT on the Florence-Kelvin Highway. The Florence-Kelvin Highway is paved for a while, but eventually gives way to a wide, graded and appears to be a well-maintained gravel road, though there are times the road "crosses" some wash areas that have several signs making it clear that water does cover the roadway during and after heavy rains.

There are a number of ranches along the way and cross roads do have signage. Follow the Florence-Kelvin Highway until you take a LEFT on Cochran Road. Cochran Road is less maintained and though low clearance cars are seen along the way, the road is rougher and travel is slow (25-35mph) is typically top speed. Follow Cochran Road to the marked rail line crossing. Ample parking is available near the start of the hike as this is a popular dispersed camping area and several spots are available.